Hindi Words Commonly Used in English That You Might Not Know

Hindi Words Commonly Used in English

Languages constantly evolve, borrowing words and expressions from one another, creating a global tapestry of linguistic connections. English, a language that has spread across the globe, has adopted numerous words from other languages. One of the most notable contributors to the English language is Hindi, thanks in part to the historical relationship between Britain and India. Some Hindi words have seamlessly become part of everyday English vocabulary, and you may use them without even realizing their origin.

In this blog, we’ll explore some Hindi words commonly used in English that you might not know originated from Hindi!

List of Hindi Words Commonly Used in English

Hindi Words Commonly Used in English with Origin, Meaning and Example

Juggernaut

Origin: From the Hindi word Jagannath (meaning “lord of the universe,” referring to a massive chariot in Hindu rituals).
Meaning: A huge, powerful, and overwhelming force or institution.
Example: The tech juggernaut continues to dominate the global market.
Fun Fact: The term originally referred to the massive chariots used during the festival of Lord Jagannath in Puri, India.

Shampoo

Origin: From the Hindi word chāmpo (meaning “to massage”).
Meaning: A liquid used to wash hair.
Example: She used a new shampoo that left her hair soft and shiny.
Fun Fact: In the 18th century, Indian traders introduced hair care practices, including oil massages, to Britain, which led to the modern use of shampoo.

Pyjama (also spelled Pajama)

Origin: From the Hindi word pāyjāma (meaning “leg clothing”).
Meaning: Loose-fitting trousers or sleepwear.
Example: I love wearing comfortable pajamas on lazy Sundays.
Fun Fact: Originally, “pajama” referred to the loose trousers worn by both men and women in India.

Thug

Origin: From the Hindi word thag (meaning “a cheat” or “swindler”).
Meaning: A violent criminal or a rough person.
Example: The gang of thugs was caught by the police.
Fun Fact: The British first encountered “thugs” in India, where they were a group of robbers notorious for strangling travelers.

Bungalow

Origin: From the Hindi word banglā (meaning “a house in the Bengal style”).
Meaning: A low, single-story house.
Example: They lived in a charming bungalow by the beach.
Fun Fact: Bungalows were originally homes built for European settlers in India, who adapted the local architectural style.

Loot

Origin: From the Hindi word lut (meaning “to plunder” or “steal”).
Meaning: Goods taken by force, especially in war or during a crime.
Example: The pirates divided their loot after the raid.
Fun Fact: The word became popular in English during the British colonial period in India.

Cheetah

Origin: From the Hindi word chītā (meaning “spotted one”).
Meaning: A large wild cat known for being the fastest land animal.
Example: The cheetah sprinted across the savanna in pursuit of its prey.
Fun Fact: The word “cheetah” was introduced to English when British colonists observed the swift animal in India.

Dinghy

Origin: From the Hindi word ḍiṅgī (meaning “small boat”).
Meaning: A small boat, often carried on a ship.
Example: We paddled the dinghy to shore after a day of sailing.
Fun Fact: Originally used in India, dinghies became popular in British naval terminology.

Guru

Origin: From the Hindi and Sanskrit word guru (meaning “teacher” or “master”).
Meaning: A spiritual teacher or an expert in a particular field.
Example: He is a marketing guru with decades of experience.
Fun Fact: Originally a term for a Hindu spiritual teacher, the word “guru” now refers to anyone considered an expert in their field.

Pundit

Origin: From the Hindi word pandit (meaning “learned scholar” or “expert”).
Meaning: An expert or authority in a particular field, often a commentator in media.
Example: Political pundits analyzed the election results all night.
Fun Fact: The word originally referred to Hindu scholars or teachers, but now it’s commonly used in journalism and commentary.

Karma

Origin: From the Hindi and Sanskrit word karma (meaning “action” or “deed”).
Meaning: The concept that good or bad actions result in corresponding future outcomes.
Example: She believes in karma and always tries to do good.
Fun Fact: In Hinduism and Buddhism, karma is the spiritual law of cause and effect that governs all life.

Mantra

Origin: From the Hindi and Sanskrit word mantra (meaning “a sacred chant or formula”).
Meaning: A word or phrase repeated frequently for focus or spiritual purposes.
Example: His mantra for success is ‘work hard and stay humble.’
Fun Fact: Mantras have been used in Hindu and Buddhist spiritual practices for thousands of years.

Yoga

Origin: From the Hindi and Sanskrit word yoga (meaning “union” or “discipline”).
Meaning: A system of exercises for mental and physical health, focusing on breath control, meditation, and posture.
Example: She practices yoga every morning to start the day feeling centered.

Chutney

Origin: From the Hindi word chaṭnī (meaning “sauce”).
Meaning: A type of condiment made from fruits, vegetables, and spices.
Example: The spicy mango chutney was a perfect complement to the curry.
Fun Fact: Chutney has gained popularity worldwide as a flavorful accompaniment to many dishes.

Bandana

Origin: From the Hindi word bāndhnū (meaning “a tied cloth”).
Meaning: A piece of cloth worn around the head or neck.
Example: She tied a bright bandana around her hair to keep it out of her face.

Bangle

Origin: From the Hindi word bāṅglī (meaning “bracelet”).
Meaning: A rigid bracelet or anklet.
Example: She wore golden bangles that jingled as she walked.
Fun Fact: Bangles have been worn in India for thousands of years, symbolizing femininity and tradition.

Jungle

Origin: From the Hindi word jangal (meaning “forest”).
Meaning: A dense, tangled forest in tropical regions.
Example: We trekked through the jungle, surrounded by towering trees and wildlife.

Verandah

Origin: From the Hindi word varandā (meaning “porch” or “balcony”).
Meaning: A roofed platform along the outside of a house, typically enclosed by a railing.
Example: They spent the evening relaxing on the verandah, watching the sunset.
Fun Fact: Verandahs are a key feature in many tropical and colonial-style homes.

Cashmere

Origin: From the Hindi word Kashmīr, referring to the region where the wool originates.
Meaning: Fine, soft wool from the Kashmir goat.
Example: She wrapped herself in a luxurious cashmere scarf.

Chutney

Origin: From the Hindi word chaṭnī (meaning “sauce”).
Meaning: A tangy or spicy condiment made from fruits, spices, and herbs.
Example: The mango chutney added a sweet and spicy flavor to the dish.

These Hindi words have enriched the English language, offering a glimpse into the culture, history, and traditions of India. From everyday items like shampoo and pajamas to philosophical concepts like karma and guru, Hindi words continue to add color and depth to English. Understanding these words’ origins not only broadens your vocabulary but also deepens your appreciation of the interconnectedness of languages.